Hardship Scholarship

Hardship Application Requirements

Purpose:
The purpose of this application is to allow individuals or families of individuals with Down Syndrome to request relief or assistance based on hardship circumstances. The application will be evaluated based on the severity of the hardship and the supporting documentation provided.

Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must meet at least one of the following criteria to be considered for hardship assistance:

1. Financial Hardship:

   • Evidence of reduced income or financial crisis (e.g., layoff, medical leave, or furlough).

   • Proof of income loss (e.g., pay stubs, unemployment benefits documentation).

2. Health-Related Hardship:

   • Proof of significant medical condition or disability (e.g., doctor’s note, medical records, or hospital discharge summary).

   • Verification of ongoing medical treatment or hospitalization.

3. Natural Disasters or Unforeseen Emergencies:

   • Documentation of the natural disaster (e.g., flood, fire, earthquake).

   • Emergency assistance or insurance claim statements.

   • Photographs, news articles, or other official reports detailing the damage.

4. Family-Related Hardship:

   • Evidence of family crises, such as the loss of a family member, caregiving responsibilities, or similar circumstances.

   • Proof of dependency (e.g., child or elder care obligations).

   • Death certificate, funeral expenses, or medical documents for family members.

5. Other Special Circumstances:

   • Applicants who experience unique hardships not listed above may still be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Documentation: Applicants may be asked to submit the following documents:

1. Personal Identification:

   • Government-issued ID (e.g., passport, driver’s license, or national ID).

   • Proof of address (e.g., utility bill or lease agreement). Applicant must reside in Tallahassee, FL.

   • Individual with Down Syndrome living in the household.

2. Proof of Hardship:

   • For Financial Hardship:

     • Income verification (e.g., pay stubs, unemployment benefits, tax returns).

   • For Health-Related Hardship:

     • Medical documentation (e.g., doctor's note, hospital discharge summary).

   • For Emergency Hardship:

     • Insurance claim, fire/flood damage report, or other disaster-related documentation.

     • Photos or videos of damage, if applicable.

   • For Family Hardship:

     • Death certificate, funeral expenses, caregiving documents.

3. Statement of Hardship:

   • A written statement describing the nature of the hardship, how it is affecting the applicant, and any steps already taken to address the situation.

   • Explanation of the specific relief or assistance being requested.

4. Additional Supporting Information (if applicable):

   • Any other documents that provide additional context or verify the situation (e.g., letters from medical professionals, social workers, or other relevant parties).​

Application Process:

1. Applications will only be accepted through the form on the link provided on the website. 

2. Any questions about your application or the review process can be directed to: downsyndromefoundationtally@gmail.com.

Important Notes:

• False or misleading information in the application may result in the denial of assistance or legal consequences.

• All personal information provided will be kept confidential and used only for the purpose of evaluating the hardship request.

• The provision of assistance is subject to availability of resources and the severity of the hardship.